Time for Trade Union Recognition is Now – Munster

Sinn Féin spokesperson for Transport Imelda Munster TD said
today that she is proud to co-sponsor a Bill that will finally make trade union
recognition a legal right.

Deputy Munster said:

“Today, my colleague David Cullinane TD and I introduced a Bill
to the Dáil that makes trade union recognition a legal right.

“You cannot claim to support the right of workers to
collectively bargain if you do not support the right to trade union recognition

“This Bill will give practical effect to the right of a
worker to be represented by a trade union.

“Last month saw Ryanair finally accept the principles
outlined in this Bill when it agreed to engage with trade unions for the first
time ever.

“Now is the time for this Bill and to give ordinary workers
to have the right to choose who should represent them for collective bargaining
and disciplinary matters and to have that right recognised by employers.

“This state has seen a rise low pay, precarious work, zero
and low hour contracts, and this is part of a race to the bottom.

“Trade unions are the best way that workers have to protect
their terms and conditions.

"A level playing field is needed. This Bill brings that
to the table.

“Those who value their employees having absolutely nothing
to fear from strengthened labour laws.

“A Republic is only a Republic in name unless it protects
the rights of citizens and central to this is the protection of rights of
people in the workplace.”